CITY of Mount Gambier has endorsed the allocation of more than $105,000 in cash and in\u2013kind support to community organisations through the second round of the 2025\/2026 Grants and Sponsorship Program.<\/p>\n
Council endorsed the assessment process and funding recommendations at its March Council meeting, following evaluation by the Grants and Sponsorship Assessment Panel.<\/p>\n
In total, $104,075 in cash funding and $1759 of in\u2013kind support will be distributed across community events, signature programs and community strengthening initiatives that deliver social, cultural and economic benefits to Mount Gambier.<\/p>\n
From this amount:<\/p>\n
$59,000 in cash and $1661 in\u2013kind will be allocated within the 2025\/2026 financial year, and, $45,075 in cash and $98 in\u2013kind has been pre\u2013allocated to the 2026\/2027 budget for projects delivered in the next financial year.<\/p>\n
City of Mount Gambier Manager Economy, Strategy and Engagement Biddie Shearing said the program plays an important role in supporting initiatives that strengthen community life while encouraging visitation and economic activity.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Grants and Sponsorship Program allows Council to invest in projects and events that bring people together, celebrate diversity, and contribute to Mount Gambier\u2019s ongoing vibrancy,\u201d Ms Shearing said.<\/p>\n
Funding approved in this round includes $45,000 in sponsorship for the Regional & Remote Music Summit 2026, to be held in Mount Gambier in October 2026.<\/p>\n
MusicSA chief executive officer Christine Schloithe welcomed council\u2019s support for the Summit.<\/p>\n
\u201cMusicSA has been working closely and collaboratively with the City of Mount Gambier and the local grassroots music community for several years now,\u201d Ms Schloithe said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re so pleased to be supported by Council to bring the national Regional & Remote Music Summit to Mount Gambier in October 2026, and we\u2019re looking forward to hundreds of regional music industry artists and professionals enjoying the unique environs of the Limestone Coast during the Summit.\u201d<\/p>\n
Backstage Incorporated\u2019s Mount Gambier Eisteddfod will also receive $5000 in support. The Eisteddfod plays a significant role in nurturing local performing arts talent, while delivering cultural and economic benefits to the city.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Eisteddfod provides an invaluable opportunity for young performers to appear on stage and receive feedback from qualified adjudicators. For many, it is the only time they will ever perform publicly,\u201d Backstage Incorporated President Natalia Chalinor said.<\/p>\n
The funding helps to ensure the event remains accessible and continues to be delivered to a high standard.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe City of Mount Gambier\u2019s grant funding is essential to the ongoing success of the Eisteddfod. While it is a joyful event to deliver, there are significant and ongoing costs involved each year,\u201d Ms Chalinor said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis support assists with venue hire and allows us to continue showcasing Dance, Calisthenics, Music, Speech and Drama, Choral and Vocal, and Highland Dance in venues that are well suited to each discipline.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ms Shearing said council recognises the significant effort involved in preparing grant applications and remains committed to supporting grant applicants.<\/p>\n
\u201cCouncil officers will work with unsuccessful applicants to strengthen future submissions or explore alternative funding opportunities,\u201d Ms Shearing said.<\/p>\n
All successful applicants are required to obtain all necessary approvals, comply with relevant legislative and compliance standards, and acquit funds following completion of their project or event.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
CITY of Mount Gambier has endorsed the allocation of more than $105,000 in cash and in\u2013kind support to community organisations through the second round of the 2025\/2026 Grants and Sponsorship Program. Council endorsed the assessment process and funding recommendations at its March Council meeting, following evaluation by the Grants and Sponsorship Assessment Panel. In total, […]<\/p>\n